[Meredith].
I barely slept.
When dawn finally crept through the tall palace windows, I was already awake, staring at the ceiling, listening to the faint movement of servants preparing the grand halls below.
A few minutes later, a soft knock came on the door, and Azul's voice followed. "Your Majesty, may we enter?"
I smiled at the title, even though it still felt unreal. "Yes."
Azul, Kira, Deidra, Cora, and Arya entered, no longer as ordinary maids in my eyes. I had elevated them two nights ago to the rank of my Ladies-in-waiting.
Their faces glowed with pride and excitement. Arya's eyes were already glassy with tears she was fighting not to shed.
"You will make us cry before the ceremony even begins," I warned lightly.
Deidra laughed softly. "Then we will cry beautifully, Your Majesty."
They moved with purpose.
